Heather has had a remarkable last 24 hours... we arrived at CHOP with Heather is a "not favorable" condition for delivery. She responded to the Cervidil to prepare her Cervix perfectly, she responded to inducement...perfectly... and she has been incredibly calm and patient throughout the day. Now, she is not only favorable, but is "in active labor" with Baby Will's arrival coming in the next 3 to 9 hours.
This has been amazing job by CHOP. Speaking of CHOP, there is a reason why these people have been so recognized as a leader in Children's care. The delivery process has been managed, measured, and executed with flawless agility and care. The big fight remains in front of us (ie: Will's CDH), but we have utmost confidence in the people of CHOP to cure him and deliver us a healthy baby boy. More on the CDH fight in an upcoming post....
At this time, Heather continues to make excellent progress in her labor. She is now dilated about 4 centimeters, and she now has an Epidural administered. Funny, as she continues through the labor process, her stack of monitors, drips, and (now with the Epidural) buttons for drug doses continues to increase.
One of the most significant drivers for Heather has been her sister... wow... I am witnessing a relationship so deep that it defines family and love. Cindy has been next to her all day, walking with her, helping her through the contractions... Below are some pictures of today.
Heather and Cindy walking the halls of the Special Delivery Unit of CHOP. Walking helps drive the delivery process... having gravity help Will make his way down the birth canal.
Another picture of Cindy and Heather, making the rounds... (Remember, Heather has no anesthesia and is handling the contractions with a smile.)
Another picture of Heather and Cindy walking.
Picture of the family supporting Heather. Her father is sitting right next to her, and has been a rock supporting her. He made the trip from Atlanta on a moment's notice to ensure he is at her side... and has stayed there (including staying at the Hospital all night tonight). My mother, father, and brother have made the trip from Louisiana to be here for our first child to be born.
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6 comments:
It is so wonderful to see all of that support with you. We are having a "Heather Labor Watch Party" here in Omaha. We will continue to check in.
What a great support system you have! Rest as much as you can with that epidural in now, so you can be ready for the next phase. You rock Heather!
Jen Miller
I want to thank you so much for the frequent updates. The videos are wonderful (how cute is grandpa!?) and the written updates are perfect.
Thank you so much for keeping those of us on Baby Will Watch in the know!
Hang in there, Heather! You're doing great!!!
Libby Cohen
Mama to Makena LCDH 9/30/06
Team Blueprint is here monitoring and supporting you both!
wonderful wonderful support, im so happy things are going so well, i will keep checking in on you...rest up and think positive. blessings!!! oh and i LOVE the video of you talking us thru things...great idea. take care. hugs and hugs!!
Heather & Matthew,
We've been praying for you all day. Now that you have the epidural, you can sleep. After this long day, you really deserve a rest.
I expect Will to be delivered tomorrow morning after Mommy and Daddy have gotten some sleep.
8/19/08 That's a wonderful birthday!
We love you and are with you in spirit!
Love, Chris, Benjamin, MJ, Emily, and Daniel
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